The Bachelor of Veterinary Science
Overview
Veterinary Science is concerned with the scientific basis of animal production, health and disease. It requires the acquisition and application of scientific knowledge in several disciplines and uses technical skills towards the solution of animal production, health, management and welfare problems.
Objectives
The Bachelor of Veterinary Science course is designed to educate you to the best international standards, and to prepare you for careers in professional work, research and public service.
Duration
Five years full-time (pre-veterinary year or at least one year of an approved science course at a university, plus four years veterinary science study).
Course outline
The first two years of the BVSc course are spent at the Preclinical Sciences Centre in Parkville, and the final two years are spent at the Veterinary Clinical Centre at Werribee.
The BVSc is a set course for pass and honours. All subjects in each year must be passed before a student can proceed to the next year. The BVSc degree is required for registration to practise as a veterinary surgeon in Australia. Part-time study is not available.
Lectures and practical work are required in almost all subjects. Laboratory experiments, demonstrations, clinical work and vacation work on farms and with veterinarians reinforce the theoretical content of lectures. Students work under supervision in the Veterinary Clinic and Hospital at Werribee in conditions similar to those they will encounter after graduating.
Some practical work involving the use of animals in teaching is an essential part of the course. The course also requires the undertaking of professional practical work between academic years and between terms. Assessment includes formal written, practical and oral examinations, and assignments.
Practical experience
The course requires a lot of practical "hands-on" work with animals, their organs, tissues, parasites and disease agents. About fifty percent (50%) of formal coursework in first year is spent in practical classes. In final year, seventy-five percent (75%) of time is spent working with animals and their owners.
Brochures
View 2009 course information brochure (PDF)
View BVSc course information for students from North America (PDF)
Please note that the pre-veterinary route that is detailed in some of the promotional material above is no longer available for students applying in 2010. We are currently introducing a newly created professional entry graduate degree - the Doctor of Veterinary Medicine*, please bear with us through this important period of transition.
Contact
Email: http://vet-unimelb.custhelp.com
Tel: + 61 3 8344 7357
Further information
- Why Choose Melbourne?
- Course Structure (Handbook link)
- Entry Requirements
- Fees & Scholarships
- Professional Recognition
- Student Life
- Accommodation
- Careers
* Pending Academic Board approval
The University has used its best endeavours to ensure that material contained on this website was correct at the time of publishing. The University gives no warranty and accepts no responsibility for the accuracy or completeness of information and the University reserves the right to make changes without notice at any time in its absolute discretion.